The Audi SQ5 is a particularly quick all-rounder that may discover its followers. Nonetheless, these on the lookout for a no-compromise driving machine should watch for the RS model. The general package deal is strong, even when the quantity of arduous plastic within the inside has little in widespread with Audi’s conventional “lovely dwelling” philosophy.
Audi not too long ago made a U-turn in its naming technique. The letter-number confusion, the place EVs acquired even numbers and combustion fashions odd numbers, is now a factor of the previous. Shifting ahead, the normal naming system that supplied readability till 2023 will return. Which means with the brand new SQ5 Sportback, every part stays as earlier than. The coupe-like silhouette is especially common in Germany, and that may probably proceed within the second era.
Nonetheless, the inside would possibly convey tears to the eyes of long-time Audi followers. Up to now, Audi’s luxurious atmosphere was a degree of satisfaction—no wooden was too high quality, no manufacturing technique too complicated to outshine rivals from Stuttgart and Munich. The motto was: “Why? As a result of we are able to!”. Sadly, not a lot of that is still within the new SQ5. As quickly because the hand or eye wanders downward, you encounter low cost arduous plastic—within the doorways and beneath the infotainment screens. And that is in a automotive that begins at €85,400. Even Chinese language rivals handle higher on this regard. Audi guarantees enchancment, however the actuality is what it’s.
The know-how is predicated on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). Which means the three.0-litre V6 now incorporates a 48-volt mild-hybrid system (MHEV Plus). A Traction Starter Generator (TSG) on the gearbox output shaft offers as much as 18 kW / 24 PS and 230 Nm of further energy, supplementing the belt-driven starter generator (RSG). At 140 km/h, the TSG disengages. For this technique to work, a high-capacity battery is required, able to quickly absorbing and discharging power. The 48V lithium iron phosphate battery has a 1.8 kWh capability, permitting quick bursts of pure-electric driving. It’s complicated however works seamlessly in most conditions. Solely often does the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission want a second to regulate. Most regenerative braking can attain 25 kW—even bringing the automotive to an entire cease. The mechanical brakes have interaction solely underneath arduous braking. Audi claims 8.8 L/100 km, however our take a look at drive—which included high-speed Autobahn and mountain passes—noticed 12.1 L/100 km.
The SQ5 makes its sporty ambitions clear with an S5 badge on the grille. Its 270 kW (367 PS) and 550 Nm of torque guarantee it’s removed from underpowered. The 0-100 km/h dash takes simply 4.5 seconds, with a high pace of 250 km/h—lots for spirited driving. However the SQ5 isn’t a hardcore efficiency automotive. These wanting pure driving thrills ought to watch for the RS Q5. As a substitute, it is a quick, sensible all-rounder with long-distance consolation. The variations between the driving modes are noticeable, however even Eco mode feels adequate. We discovered Balanced mode excellent, with the gearbox in “S” mode for sharper throttle response. Drivers may also customise their most well-liked setup. The steering lacks suggestions, feeling extra synthetic than Audi’s electrical fashions.
Audi provides two suspension choices for the SQ5: conventional metal springs or adaptive air suspension. Each are firmer than customary Q5 fashions however not excessively stiff. In Dynamic mode, the journey top drops by 15 mm to boost aerodynamics. At 120 km/h, the automotive mechanically lowers. In Off-Highway mode, the entrance lifts by 30 mm and the rear by 32 mm. The Raise setting raises the whole automotive by 45 mm, leading to a complete top adjustment vary of 60 mm. The loading edge might be lowered by 50 mm to make loading the boot simpler.
The SQ5 Sportback offers ample area. Even at 1.85 metres tall, rear passengers have sufficient legroom and headroom regardless of the sloping roofline. The rear bench can slide 10 cm ahead or backward, adjusting both boot area or legroom. Nonetheless, this reduces boot quantity from 540 to 470 litres. With the rear seats folded, 1,388 litres can be found.
Inside, the SQ5 options Audi’s newest infotainment setup. A curved 11.9-inch instrument cluster sits behind the wheel, whereas a 14.5-inch touchscreen manages navigation, media, and local weather. The pinnacle-up show is 85% bigger than earlier than, enhancing visibility. Audi’s new voice assistant, activated by “Hey Audi”, integrates ChatGPT for superior queries when the built-in system lacks a solution.
The Audi SQ5 Sportback is a quick, versatile premium SUV, however not an all-out sports activities machine. These in search of sharper dealing with ought to watch for the RS Q5. Nonetheless, for drivers who worth consolation, tech, and balanced efficiency, the SQ5 is an interesting package deal—even when Audi’s conventional premium touches are much less evident than earlier than.
